Contemporary multi-unit residential building set for Dickerson Pike

Dickerson Pike lacks eye-catching contemporary architecture — and attractive buildings from any era. A proposed building could alter that architectural reality.

Tentatively to be called Gatewood and developed by the Metro Development and Housing Agency, the 72-unit, three-story building awaits a July 28 Metro Planning Commission approval. The $495,000 Gatewood — to anchor the northeast corner of Gatewood Avenue and Dickerson — would offer the area both market-rate and affordable units.

“It will be a nice new housing option for people who want to live in that corridor,” said Phil Ryan, MDHA executive director. He cited Skyline Medical Center and Walmart as possible employers of Gatewood residents.

The project is being funded via a $30.5 million federal grant that is part of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program regarding affordable housing. NSP focuses on buying foreclosed properties and rehabbing them or building afresh on their empty sites. The grant represents a one-time source derived from federal stimulus money.

Often, projects in Nashville’s economically disadvantaged districts use federal low-income housing tax credits via an IRS program administered by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency. Such credits often come with cumbersome requirements, making the grant-driven Gatewood all the more distinctive.

Local architects Moody Nolan Inc. and Smith Gee Studio have designed sleek angular forms. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification will be pursued.

Ryan said MDHA hopes construction begins in early fall. He noted 15 years’ worth of initiatives along the corridor including buffalo statues, streetscape improvements, the McFerrin Park community center, and an overhaul to the Sam Levy public housing community.